Success Tips for Nursing Council Exams in Nigeria

The Nigerian Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMCN) exam, commonly referred to as the NMCN licensing exam, is an important milestone for nursing students in Nigeria. Passing this exam is required to become a registered nurse.

As someone who has taken both the Registered Nurse (RN) and Registered Midwife (RM) exams in Nigeria, I have compiled some tips based on my experience to help nursing students prepare for and perform their best on exam day.

Overview of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) Exam

The NMCN exam plays a crucial role in assessing the readiness of nursing students to practice as registered nurses in Nigeria. It covers a wide range of topics, including medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, mental health nursing, community health nursing, and more. The exam consists of both written and practical components, which evaluate the theoretical knowledge and clinical skills of the candidates.

Administered by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), the NMCN exam differs in structure and content from exams in other countries. Therefore, nursing students must familiarize themselves with the specific requirements and expectations of the NMCN exam to prepare adequately.

Exam Preparation Tips

Let’s discuss the important things to do while preparing for your examination.

Start your preparation early

The first tip is to start preparing early. Preparation for the NMC exam should begin from the day you start your nursing program, as the exam covers all topics taught throughout your studies. Starting early also helps alleviate the stress associated with last-minute cramming and allows for a more organized and structured study approach.

Have a study plan

Developing a study plan is highly recommended as it is very effective for exam preparation. Create a detailed study schedule that includes specific goals for each study session. Break down the topics into manageable sections and allocate adequate time to revise each one.

A study plan will help you stay organized, track your progress, and ensure that you cover all the necessary content before the exam. You can help yourself with these 3-month RN and 1-month RM exam study plans that outline topics and reading schedules. 

Practice past questions

Practice past exam questions, as these are written by experienced nursing tutors familiar with the exam format and what markers look for in answers. Practicing questions helps you understand how different topics may be tested and the various question styles like multiple choice. 

When you get a question wrong, you can review the relevant section in your textbook to reinforce your learning. The famous “green Bible” nursing textbook contains many past questions and answers for practice.

Use review books as study resources

Investing in recommended review books is highly advantageous in NMCN exam preparation. These books often provide comprehensive explanations, practice questions, and clinical scenarios that can enhance your understanding of the topics. 

Choose updated review books that align with the current nursing practices and cover the content included in the NMCN syllabus/curriculum. Use these resources to supplement your study materials and gain further insights into the subject matter.

Form study groups

Collaborating with fellow nursing students can be immensely beneficial in exam preparation. Join or form study groups to discuss and review the exam topics together. This collaborative approach allows for a collective exchange of knowledge, sharing different perspectives, and clarifying any areas of confusion. 

Engaging in group discussions and study sessions can enhance your understanding of the subject matter and promote a supportive learning environment.

Conduct mock exams

I also recommend taking mock exams to experience exam emotions and time pressure before the real thing. Mock exams can be organized among friends or with senior nursing students. Questions can come from any source. I have created an online mock exam using Google Forms that provides instant scores.

Mock exams allow you to gauge your level of preparedness, knowledge and skills, identify areas that require improvement, and refine your exam-taking strategies. Ensure you take them as many times as possible before the main exam.

Read Also: What to Do When You Fail a Nursing Exam

Exam Day Tips

Now let’s discuss what to do on the exam day itself. 

Gather necessary materials

On the exam day, ensure that you have all the required materials to avoid any last-minute stress or delays. Gather identification documents, writing materials (such as pens, pencils, and erasers), and any specific items mentioned in the exam instructions. Prepare these materials in advance and double-check that you have everything you need to complete the exam.

Adhere to uniform and grooming regulations

The NMCN exam often has specific regulations regarding uniforms and grooming. Familiarize yourself with these requirements and ensure that you comply with them. Dress professionally and neatly, and follow the recommended uniform guidelines. Maintaining a professional appearance is particularly important during the practical components of the exam, where grooming and appropriate attire may be assessed.

Following exam rules and instructions

During the exam, pay close attention to the instructions provided by the examiners. Read each question carefully, and ensure that you fully understand what is being asked before providing your response. Follow the guidelines for each section of the exam and adhere to the time limits specified. Failure to follow instructions and rules may result in penalties or loss of marks, so it is crucial to be attentive and follow the guidelines provided.

Managing time effectively

Time management is a critical aspect of succeeding in the NMCN exam. It is essential to allocate your time wisely and ensure that you have sufficient time to complete all sections of the exam. Divide your time according to the marks allocated to each question or section. If you encounter a difficult question, it is advisable to move on and come back to it later. 

Take Breaks When Allowed

The exam will be tiring, so use any allotted break times to relax, stretch, have a snack and re-energize. Breaks help refresh your mind so you can focus better for the remainder of the exam. Do not spend breaks socializing or discussing the exam with others, as that time should be for rest. 

Review Before Submitting

Before submitting your final answers, take 5-10 minutes to review your paper. Double check any calculations, diagrams or labeling. Consider revisiting skipped questions or ones you may have changed your mind about. A final review can catch any minor errors and ensure you have answered every question to the best of your ability.

Conclusion

Preparing for the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) exam requires dedication, thoroughness, and effective study strategies. Starting early, creating a study plan, practicing past questions, using review books, forming study groups, and conducting mock exams are all essential steps in the preparation process.

Success in the NMCN exam is the result of consistent effort and preparation. Stay focused, believe in yourself, and trust in your knowledge and skills. With proper preparation and the right mindset, you can approach the NMCN exam with confidence. 

Best wishes for a successful NMCN exam and a rewarding nursing career ahead!